For a fourth season in a row, Queen's Harvest offered customers a selection of Australia's finest black truffles.

What are truffles?
Truffles are a type of mushroom, an ectomycorrhizal fungi to be exact. This means truffles grow underground, in a symbiotic relationship with the roots of trees. Commonly these trees are oak, pine or hazelnut trees.

Why are truffles so expensive?
Truffles are incredibly difficult to cultivate and will only grow in pristine conditions. This involves managing the pH of the soil and ensuring both the tree and the fungus cooperate with each other.  Truffles are, and can only be sought out by trained mammals like dogs or pigs. Further, it can take up to four to six years before an inoculated tree will produce its first truffle, making cultivation a lengthy and painstaking process. 

How do I use truffle?
In our opinion, there’s no easier way to enjoy truffle than shaved over scrambled eggs. If you’re new to cooking with truffle, this is the best way to start! Alternatively, we also recommend adorning your wintry risotto or a plain pasta dish like Cacio e Pepe with fresh truffle. If you’re feeling adventurous, and are left wanting more by the time dessert comes around, try adding truffle to a homemade tiramisu or vanilla ice cream. If you can’t already tell- we’re truffle obsessed! 

How should I store my truffle? How long can I keep it?
Truffles should be stored in an airtight jar or container and wrapped in a kitchen paper towel in the refrigerator. Keep an eye out for any moisture that begins to develop and wipe dry. Generally truffles can last for up to seven days, but we recommend using them within the first three days of purchase to maximise flavour.

Where are your truffles sourced and when are they available for sale?
Queen’s Harvest proudly offers a range of Australian black truffles (Tuber Melanosporum), sourced from Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia. Truffles are available for purchase typically from early June until mid-August, depending on availability. If supply allows, we also offer a selection of European truffles, including White Truffle (Tuber Magnatum) during their season.

We seasonally curate a range of truffle products to elevate your everyday dishes, including truffle oil, paste, salt, potato chips, pasta sauce, hot sauce and honey.